4 Minutes
Old-School G-Wagen, New Attitude
The Mercedes G 550 4x4 — known in some markets as the G 500 4x4 — has always stirred passion among off-road purists. Once, conversation about the G-Class invariably turned to the extreme 4x4 variants and the even more outrageous 6x6 concepts. Those halo models earned their reputation through dramatic technical upgrades, tall ride height and a look that could not be ignored.
Recently, an older-generation G-Wagen popped back into view on Instagram courtesy of @al13wheels, and it’s a tidy reminder that classic Gs still have plenty of presence. The car’s fresh footwear — a set of AL13 HD-008 alloys — gives this veteran a renewed, purposeful stance without masking the model’s unmistakable silhouette.
AL13 HD-008 Wheels: Size and Style
AL13’s HD line is available in 19–24-inch diameters and comes in 1-, 2- and 3-piece configurations. The set fitted to this white G is a 3-piece satin-and-gloss black finish with an eight-spoke layout and noticeable concavity. Wrapped in chunky, high-traction rubber, the wheels visually transform the G into something equally at home on a rocky track or a city street.
Highlights:
- AL13 HD-008 3-piece wheels in satin/gloss black
- Sizes in the HD range: 19–24 inches
- Chunky tires for improved off-road grip
Visual Mods That Matter
The Instagram gallery shows more than just new rims. This G wears two pairs of daytime running lights at the front, additional lamps above the windscreen, a muscular hood, smoked light units and — notably — no spare wheel on the rear door. Small changes like black accents on a white body help retain the classic military-inspired aesthetic while giving the car a modern, aggressive edge.
Quote: 'It’s a subtle remix of classic G-Class DNA — modern wheels and a few tactical touches keep the charm but add capability.'
Why the 4x4 Variants Turn Heads
What made variants such as the G 550 4x4² famous were engineering touches built specifically for extreme terrain: raised ride height, wider tracks and, in some versions, portal axles that dramatically increase ground clearance. Those features let the G clear obstacles ordinary SUVs simply can’t, while the big, flared silhouette makes the vehicle an icon regardless of where it’s driven.
Market and Tuning Context
The aftermarket for G-Class models remains strong. Owners often balance preserving provenance with personalizing capability — wheels, tires and lighting are among the most popular upgrades. Brands like AL13 meet this demand by offering robust, multi-piece wheel designs that suit both on-road style and off-road function.
Practical takeaways for enthusiasts:
- Upgrading wheels and tires is one of the most visible and functional mods you can do.
- Multi-piece wheels add customization options and can be repaired or rebuilt.
- Keep proportion and ride geometry in mind: very large wheels can change handling and require appropriate tires.
Final Thoughts
This older-generation G 550 4x4 wears its upgrades well. It’s neither overdone nor stock — a tasteful combination of white paint, black accents and hearty wheels that remind us why the G-Class remains a favorite for customization. Whether you prefer original factory spec or modernized classics, this example underlines a simple truth: the G-Wagen ages with character, and the right set of wheels can give it a whole new stride.
So, do you give this 4x4-era G your stamp of approval? Yay or nay?
Source: autoevolution
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